A WaSH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) Planning Workshop is currently underway for Rabaul and Pomio Districts of East New Britain (ENB) province, aiming to tackle water, sanitation, and hygiene issues.
Running from October 7th to 10th at the Rabaul Hotel, the workshop is conducted by the Department of National Planning and Monitoring’s WaSH Project Management Unit. National WaSH Coordinator, Takele Tuna, explained that the workshop’s purpose is to guide both districts through WaSH planning processes, ensuring alignment with the MTDP IV and setting clear targets to improve WaSH facilities.
Both districts recently conducted WaSH Enumerators Training and carried out a baseline survey to collect vital data from schools, health facilities, and communities. This data will inform a comprehensive 5-year WaSH Plan.
Tuna stressed the importance of collaboration: “Consultation must involve community leaders and government officials, reflecting a shared commitment to improving WaSH standards.”
Acting Rabaul District Administrator, Freddy Lemeki urged the districts to ensure baseline data aligns with national and provincial development plans. “The WaSH Plan must address the specific needs of each district,” he said.